Hate Crime Victimization and Weapon Use

Abstract

Prior research has suggested that hate crimes hurt more, in that they are more physically severe than other crimes. A separate body of research has focused on the role of weapons in exacerbating violence; yet, no research has considered the role of weapon use in bias crime victimization. Following this, this research examines the relationship between weapon use, bias motivation, and victimization in the United States. On one hand, weapons may play an important role in hate crime by exacerbating violence. On the other hand, weapons may be unnecessary for facilitating hate crime violence, given the animus associated with bias motivation. Using data from the National Incident-Based Reporting System, we find that bias crimes are both (a) less likely than nonbias crimes to involve weapons and (b) more likely than nonbias crimes to involve serious or lethal victim injury. These patterns are particularly pronounced for antisexual orientation hate crimes.

Politics or prejudice? Separating the influence of political affiliation and prejudicial attitudes in determining support for hate crime law.

“…Although hate and bias crimes have been increasing in the United States in recent years (Kena & Thompson, 2021; Smith, 2021) and there is a substantial amount of evidence suggesting that hate crimes are more severe than other crimes (Iganski, 2001; Lantz & Kim, 2019; Malcom & Lantz, 2021), hate crime legislation remains a particularly divisive issue in American society. More specifically, while most Americans agree that hate crime laws are necessary, roughly one third of Americans are still unsupportive of such legislation (Steen & Cohen, 2004; see also, Cramer et al, 2017; Hart & Teeter, 1999a, 1999b).…”

Anti-Asian Xenophobia, Hate Crime Victimization, and Fear of Victimization During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…More specifically, research has demonstrated a relationship between experiences with racial discrimination and a number of negative mental health outcomes, including psychological distress, reduced life satisfaction, decreased self-esteem, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and other mental health issues ( Gee et al, 2007 ; Hwang & Goto, 2008 ; Nadal et al, 2015 ; Padela & Heisler, 2010 ; Sue et al, 2009 ). Prior research has also suggested that hate crimes can result in severe physical trauma and negatively impact physical health as well ( Chen et al, 2020 ; Gee et al, 2007 ; Lantz & Kim, 2019 ; Malcom & Lantz, 2021 ). Given the scope of the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers should make careful efforts to better understand the specific consequences of COVID-19-related discrimination and bias if we hope to develop appropriate interventions to deal with such issues.…”

Are Asian Victims Less Likely to Report Hate Crime Victimization to the Police? Implications for Research and Policy in the Wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…From a policy perspective, it is also important to consider the profound physical and mental health consequences of hate crime victimization. Hate crimes tend to be more physically severe than other crimes (e.g., Lantz & Kim, 2019; Malcom & Lantz, 2020) and more psychologically traumatic than other crimes (e.g., Herek et al, 1997). Within this context, one of the most important consequences of the disclosure of victimization is the access to resources for dealing with the victimization, including victim support services (Fisher et al, 2003).…”